Foot-and-Mouth case confirmed near Empangeni

The KZN Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says effective control measures are in place to stop the spread of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) after a confirmed positive case within the Zululand and King Cetshwayo districts.

According to the department, the first positive case was reported in Vryheid, while the second was from an area near Empangeni.

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A possible third case is being investigated by veterinary services in Ulundi.

Agriculture MEC Super Zuma said the movement of diseased animals is a major cause of the resurgence of FMD, and when positive animals are in contact with healthy populations, transmission is inevitable.

Moreover, Zuma added that what has induced complications in the province are straying buffalo, as they are the principal hosts of FMD.

Since the report of the first case, the department has intensified vaccination programmes, and put into effect ongoing clinical and serological surveillance in the affected areas.

“As part of our foot soldiers, we are confident that the committee will mobilise our farmers and encourage them to heed the call to vaccinate.

“Vaccination is the only option to prevent economic repercussions. As it is, our farmers are unable to make a profit due to imposed restrictions, but we will continue to work tirelessly to prevent further spread,” said Zuma.

The MEC added that although FMD was not fatal to livestock, it was severely crippling the provincial economy.

Read more in this week’s ZO Weekender.

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